Lietuvos Rytas forward Chuck Eidson gave us a short interview just before today’s Euroleague game against Fenerbahce.
So Chuck, you apparently signed a 4 year deal with Lietuvos Rytas. What were the main reasons for this somehow unusual deal for a basketball player as normally most of the players only get 1 year contracts?
I have heard about this four year deal a few times. Let me take this opportunity to officially say this deal was never even brought to the table. Last summer I signed a two year deal with Rytas so I will be here next season as well.
You are actually having a great season with Rytas for the moment. Do you think you can go to the Final Four and win the Euroleague?
As I am filling this out I am getting ready to leave for the Fenerbahce game so I guess we will know the answer in a few hours. I definitely have a good feeling.
After your NCAA career, you did the "normal" way of every US-born player going through the minor leagues to qualify for an NBA roster spot. Is that still your goal? If not, when did you realize that you won’t play in the NBA? And are you sad about it?
Of course everyone who grows up in the USA wants to play in the NBA. For me it has always been about providing for my family. I am having a great time playing in Europe. I love the game here and am lucky to be playing.
You played the Nike Hoop Summit in 1999 and the Albert-Schweitzer Tournament in 1998. How were these experiences for you?
Nike Hoop Summit was fun but the Albert Schweitzer game was my best experience. I remember everyone from that team. I had a great time rooming with Carlos Boozer and getting to know him and his family better.
Do you have already plans what you will do after your basketball career?
No concrete plans right now but I know I have some options. I definitely want to still be working in the basketball world.
Coming back to the beginning of your career in Europe, you started in Giessen. What were your first impressions when you started playing in Europe? It was the best season of that team for the last several years. I guess the fans in Giessen still love you. Did you feel the same when you went to Strasbourg in 2006?
I was so lucky to start my European career in Giessen. The people there, my coaches and my teammates were some of the best I have ever had in my life. When we went to Strasbourg it was very different. The organization was bigger. I still really enjoyed the people I worked with but it wasn’t as close knit as Giessen. I don’t know too many people who have been as fortunate as I have with their different organizations.
One last question, after having spent already several seasons in Europe, do you feel at home here? Or are you always thinking on summer when you can fly back to the States and see your family?
Of course I love when I go home and get to see my family and get a break but that is how everyone feels when they go on vacation. I considering myself as living in Europe. I am always excited and ready to come back.
Good Luck Chuck for your game tonight and for the future.
